Tooth Contouring & Re-Shaping

An ideal candidate would have minor imperfections in their teeth such as small chips, minor unevenness, slight overlaps, shallowly pitted surfaces, or worn biting areas in their teeth. Other indications for the procedure are one or more teeth out of proportion in size to the rest of the set, such as large, pointy canine teeth. Note that reshaping can only occur on healthy teeth, so x-rays are often taken before the procedure is done to check for problems.

Some characteristics of the teeth that might preclude reshaping are: thin enamel, previous extensive restorations of the tooth or surrounding teeth, recently erupted teeth, teeth having gum structure that would be disturbed by the procedure, or teeth that are still shifting. Some contouring is not recommended if it will adversely affect the patient's bite.

Keep in mind that tooth contouring and reshaping is a procedure for minor imperfections. Dentists often need to combine this procedure with other work such as veneers, bleaching, crowns or other cosmetic procedures to achieve an optimum result.

If multiple procedures are needed and expense is an issue, consider doing the procedures over time. Often contouring is a suggested first step that can make a big difference in how you feel about your smile.

1. What exact changes to my teeth are you planning with the contouring and reshaping procedure?
2. How many visits will be needed?
3. What is your estimated cost of the procedure?
4. How much discomfort do you anticipate?
5. What is your experience in performing this procedure? (How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many he/she has performed in the past year?)
6. What percentages of patients have had significant complications? (The dentist should disclose this information to you.)
7. Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again? (The dentist should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)
8. What kind of longevity can I expect?
9. May I see "before and after" photos of recent patients? The dentist should provide many photos of recent patients.
10. Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have it done? (Either on videotape or ask to view one in real life.)
11. What should I expect after the procedure, in terms of soreness, what to watch for, and any limitations?
12. Do you offer patient financing?

• Tell your dentist about any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements)
• Tell your dentist about all medications you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription)
• Carefully follow any instructions your dentist gives you.)

The information on this web site is only intended as an introduction to this procedure and should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor as a guarantee of the result. The best method of determining your options is to consult qualified clinicians who are able to answer specific questions related to your situation.

• Smile Design (Tooth Contouring and Reshaping)

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